An Akron fixture packed with more than one million antiques will close its doors by the end of the year and focus exclusively on the online shopper.
Stagecoach Antiques has moved around Akron for 75 years, but the business has been in its current location on West Market Street about four decades.
Owner Eileen Moats said business has been good, but she decided to close the shop for personal reasons.
Her father, Leo Walter, opened the store in the 1940s. He passed away last April. Moats also said she wants more flexibility in her schedule and more time to spend with her grandchildren.
"This place has so many memories. So many of our customers are sad that we're leaving," Moats said. "It's very bittersweet. It is. I loved my customers and I know they come in and tell me how sad they are and I do understand. I did have to prepare myself a lot for that. Otherwise, I would by crying all day long."
The store sells lamps, plates, silverware, hardware, crystals, furniture, clocks, pictures, books, magazines, and many other items.
All of the inventory is 50 percent off through December 29.
Moats already had an online presence on eBay and Etsy, but in 2019, her focus will be completely on digital. She will review her inventory and decide which antiques will be listed online.
She said the change isn't completely a "sign of the times", but added more stores, including antique shops, have to be more focused on reaching customers through digital means.
"I think a lot of people are going more online. It just gives the shopper a little bit more flexibility in their schedule."
